Next-generation SiC process platform for power MOSFET designs

X-FAB Silicon Foundries SE has launched XSICM03, its next-generation XbloX platform, advancing SiC process technology for power MOSFETs, delivering greatly reduced cell pitch, allowing increased die per wafer and improved on-state resistance without compromising reliability.

XbloX is the company's streamlined business process and technology platform, which was developed to accelerate the development of advanced SiC MOSFET technology. It integrates qualified SiC process development blocks and modules for planar MOSFET production, simplifying the onboarding process and greatly reducing design risks and product development time. Combining proven process modules with robust design rules, control plans, and FMEAs allows faster prototyping, easier design evaluation, and a shorter time to market. This approach provides customers with a competitive edge, letting designers create a diverse product portfolio while attaining production timelines up to nine months faster than traditional development methods.

This next-generation platform provides active area design cell size reduction while maintaining robust process controls and leakage and breakdown device performance. The XSICM03 platform, with robust design rules, permits customers to create SiC planar MOSFETs with a cell pitch that is over 25% smaller than the previous generation. This improvement allows for up to a 30% increase in die per wafer compared to the previous generation. Employing proven process blocks, the platform ensures excellent gate oxide reliability and device robustness. The enriched PCM library and improved design support permit for fast customer tape-out, resulting in faster product development.

Rico Tillner, CEO, X-FAB Texas, explains: "With its streamlined approach, our next-generation process platform addresses the increasing demand for high-performance SiC devices in automotive, industrial, and energy applications. We enable existing and new customers in creating application-optimised product portfolios through accelerated prototyping and design evaluation, significantly reducing time to market."

The next-generation platform XSICM03 is available for early access.